Collier leaders want more marketing dollars to boost tourism

COLLIER COUNTY: Tourism officials in Collier County say they're at a disadvantage because they're outspent by nearly every competing market in the state. And now they're looking to pad their budgets to help promote tourism year-round – without raising taxes.

"Money for marketing is well spent. It helps the economy - not just me as a store owner. It helps everyone who lives in here in terms of jobs and income," said Gloria Kovacs from Name Game.

Any business owner with a storefront along 5th Avenue in Naples will tell you that tourists pay the bills in Collier County.

"Tourists do make up a lot - especially when season hits. They make up a lot of our business," said Jaclyn Hamilton, of Kilwin's.